Kero Cup Item Number: 41.1275.5 from the Brooklyn Museum
Credit Line
Museum Expedition 1941, Frank L. Babbott Fund
Label
The kero cup form originates with the Inca. The original decorations included abstract geometric patterns. After the arrival of Europeans, the kero evolved to include pictorial scenes, a European convention, but its function remained the same. Kero cups were used to drink chichi (maize beer) in ritual ceremonies, for instance in the sealing of a deal or agreement.
Although the kero looks similar to a European or North American colonial beaker, the two forms developed independently. The similarity of both cups in form and function created a link between Spanish and native cultures, reflecting the role of things in building cultural connections.
Item History
- Made between 1500 and 1599
What
- Name
- Kero Cup
- Identification Number
- 41.1275.5
- Type of Item
- kero and cup
- Material
- lacquered wood
- Overall
- length 7.375 in, width 6.9375 in
Who
- Culture
- Inca
Where
- Holding Institution
- Brooklyn Museum
When
- Creation Date
- between 1500 and 1599
Other
- Location
- Great Hall, 1st Floor
- Classification
- Vessel